The tocsin of the soul - the dinner bell (25th June 1809)

Edward frowned, trying to remember.

"I seem to recall a rather spectacular entrance and a campanile. And a few students, although somebody told me that most have decided to go and fight against the French."

Outside, voices grew louder, although they obviously tried to keep it down - the officer of the watch was organising the relief of the piquets. Edward tilted his head, listening, then sighed.

"It is getting late. May I thank you for a most delightful dinner?"

"I beg your pardon; I had not realised the time," Vickery said, glancing up, and then back down at the table, where their empty plates stood in mute testimony to the excellence of the meal. "You have been a most welcome dinner guest."

Edward smiled, folded his napkin, and stood up.

"You have nothing to beg pardon for - certainly not for entertaining me so well that I had not realised it either. It was a great pleasure!"

Vickery stood too. "It has been a most enjoyable evening. Thank you for coming. Dare I say I look forward to many more such companionable evenings?"

"It would be my great delight."

Edward executed a formal half bow, then offered Vickery his hand.

"I shall very much look forward to it. Will you do me the honour of accepting my invitation next time? Perhaps on the 27th, if that would be convenient?"

Vickery shook the Engineer's hand, his grasp firm, and smiled. "I shall look forward to it, thank you. To have such a companion is very much appreciated, you may be sure."

"Likewise!"

Edward returned the smile and the handshake, real delight in his eyes, then with another bow and a cordial 'Goodnight!', he took his leave.